Cox wants Smoltz in starting rotation

That doesn't mean the Braves manager isn't open to talking about having the right-hander return to the bullpen after his stint on the DL.

Asked Wednesday whether Smoltz could go back to being a closer, Cox said: "We are always thinking about it."

In the next breath, Cox added: "I like him as a starter."

The 40-year-old Smoltz went on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with an ailing right shoulder. He began the season on the DL with tightness in the back of his shoulder, but after being activated, he went 3-1 with an 0.78 ERA in his first four starts.

Smoltz told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution he would consider going back to relieving.

"Right now I'm sitting at ground zero, taking it day by day, looking at every option to help this team get to the playoffs and end my career the way I'd like to end it," he said.

A-Rod goes on DL for first time since 2000

NEW YORK - Alex Rodriguez was placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday with a strained right quadriceps, leaving another major hole in the New York Yankees lineup.

Rodriguez hurt his leg April 20 in Baltimore and missed three games last week before returning for a four-game series at Cleveland. But he was removed for a pinch hitter in the eighth inning of Monday night's 5-2 win over the Indians and said he felt a "pull" while running the bases.

Mulder struggles in fourth rehab start

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - St. Louis Cardinals left-hander Mark Mulder gave up nine runs in his fourth rehabilitation start, an indication he's far from ready to return from September shoulder surgery.